U.S. patent application number 14/534261 was filed with the patent office on 2015-08-27 for modular self-tracking micro-concentrator for space power.
The applicant listed for this patent is The Boeing Company. Invention is credited to Nasser H. Karam, Dimitri Krut, Scott B. Singer.
Application Number | 20150243822 14/534261 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53883053 |
Filed Date | 2015-08-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150243822 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Karam; Nasser H. ; et
al. |
August 27, 2015 |
Modular Self-Tracking Micro-Concentrator For Space Power
Abstract
Technologies for a micro-concentrator modular array. The
micro-concentrator modular array may include two or more
micro-concentrator solar modules. One or more of the
micro-concentrator solar modules may be removable from the
micro-concentrator modular array. Micro-concentrator solar modules
may be added to a micro-concentrator modular array. One or more of
the micro-concentrator solar modules may be electrically and/or
mechanically connected to other micro-concentrator solar modules.
To facilitate an electrical connection, a conductive connector may
be used to connect an electrical output of one micro-concentrator
solar module with an electrical input of another micro-concentrator
solar module.
Inventors: |
Karam; Nasser H.; (La
Canada, CA) ; Singer; Scott B.; (Sherman Oaks,
CA) ; Krut; Dimitri; (Sylmar, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
The Boeing Company |
Chicago |
IL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
53883053 |
Appl. No.: |
14/534261 |
Filed: |
November 6, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
14186703 |
Feb 21, 2014 |
|
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14534261 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
136/246 ;
29/890.031 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y02E 10/52 20130101;
H02S 20/32 20141201; H01L 31/0547 20141201; H01L 31/0508 20130101;
Y10T 29/49352 20150115; H02S 50/10 20141201 |
International
Class: |
H01L 31/054 20060101
H01L031/054; H01L 31/05 20060101 H01L031/05; H01L 31/18 20060101
H01L031/18; H02S 50/10 20060101 H02S050/10 |
Claims
1. A micro-concentrator modular array (300), comprising: a
plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules (10), each of the
plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules (10) comprising a
plurality of solar cells (22), wherein at least two of the
plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules (10) comprises a
connector pad (304) configured to facilitate a connection with an
adjacent micro-concentrator solar module (10); and a connector (68)
configured to removably engage connector pads (304) of two adjacent
micro-concentrator solar modules (10) to connect the two adjacent
micro-concentrator solar modules (10).
2. The micro-concentrator modular array of claim 1, further
comprising a plurality of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS)
based reflectors, wherein the MEMS based reflectors are each
selectively tiltable about at least one axis to reflect a beam of
light.
3. The micro-concentrator modular array of claim 1, wherein at
least one of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules is
selectively removable from the micro-concentrator modular
array.
4. The micro-concentrator modular array of claim 1, wherein the
plurality of solar cells are generally square or hexagonal.
5. The micro-concentrator modular array of claim 1, wherein the
connection is a mechanical connection.
6. The micro-concentrator modular array of claim 5, wherein at
least one connector pad comprises a void and the connector
comprises a tab sized and shaped for insertion within the void.
7. The micro-concentrator modular array of claim 1, wherein the
connection is an electrical connection.
8. The micro-concentrator modular array of claim 7, wherein at
least one connector pad and the connector comprises an electrically
conductive material to conduct an electrical power output of a
first solar cell of the plurality of solar cells to a second solar
cell of the plurality of solar cells.
9. The micro-concentrator modular array of claim 1, further
comprising a housing to contain at least a portion of the plurality
of micro-concentrator solar modules and configured to provide
structural support or protection for the plurality of
micro-concentrator solar modules.
10. The micro-concentrator modular array of claim 1, wherein two or
more of the plurality of solar cells are connected in a series
configuration, two or more of the plurality of solar cells are
connected in a parallel configuration, or two or more of the
plurality of solar cells are connected in a series/parallel
configuration.
11. The micro-concentrator modular array of claim 1, wherein at
least one of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules
comprises a circuit comprising a protection diode configured to
reduce a probability of current flow in an undesirable direction
due to an operational characteristic of an adjoining solar
cell.
12. The micro-concentrator modular array of claim 1, wherein at
least one of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules
comprises a circuit comprising at least one bypass diode configured
to direct the flow of electricity in the circuit.
13. A method to change electrical capacity of a micro-concentrator
modular array, comprising: determining if the electrical capacity
of the micro-concentrator modular array is to be changed, the
micro-concentrator modular array comprising a plurality of
micro-concentrator solar modules comprising a plurality of solar
cells, a plurality of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) based
reflectors, wherein the MEMS based reflectors are each selectively
tiltable about at least one axis to reflect a beam of light,
wherein at least two of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar
modules comprise a connector pad configured to facilitate a
connection with an adjacent micro-concentrator solar module; in
response to determining that the capacity of the micro-concentrator
modular array is to be changed, determining whether to replace one
of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules, add an
additional micro-concentrator solar module to the plurality of
micro-concentrator solar modules, or remove a micro-concentrator
solar module from the plurality of micro-concentrator solar
modules; and in response to a determination to replace one of the
plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules, identifying the one
of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules, replacing the
identified one of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules
with a new micro-concentrator solar module, and placing the new
micro-concentrator solar module in service.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein in response to a determination
to add an additional micro-concentrator solar module to the
plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules, adding a new
micro-concentrator solar module to the plurality of
micro-concentrator solar modules, and placing the new
micro-concentrator solar module in service.
15. The method of claim 13, wherein in response to a determination
to remove a micro-concentrator solar module to the plurality of
micro-concentrator solar modules, removing the micro-concentrator
solar module.
16. The method of claim 13, wherein replacing the identified one of
the plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules with a new
micro-concentrator solar module comprises moving at least one
connector associated with the identified one of the plurality of
micro-concentrator solar modules to a position to facilitate the
movement of the identified one of the plurality of
micro-concentrator solar modules, wherein the connector is
configured to connect the identified one of the plurality of
micro-concentrator solar modules to a second array of the plurality
of micro-concentrator solar modules.
17. The method of claim 13, further comprising monitoring a status
of the micro-concentrator modular array.
18. A micro-concentrator solar module (10), comprising: a plurality
of solar cells (22); and a connector pad (304) configured to
facilitate a connection with an adjacent micro-concentrator solar
module (10).
19. The micro-concentrator solar module of claim 18, further
comprising a connector configured to removably engage connector
pads of two adjacent micro-concentrator solar modules to connect
the two adjacent micro-concentrator solar modules.
20. The micro-concentrator solar module of claim 19, wherein the
connector comprises a protection diode configured to reduce a
probability of current flow in an undesirable direction due to an
operational characteristic of an adjoining solar cell.
21. The micro-concentrator solar module of claim 18, further
comprising a plurality of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS)
based reflectors, wherein the MEMS based reflectors are each
selectively tiltable about at least one axis to reflect a beam of
light.
22. The micro-concentrator solar module of claim 18, wherein the
micro-concentrator solar module is generally square or
hexagonal.
23. The micro-concentrator solar module of claim 18, wherein the
connection is a mechanical connection.
24. The micro-concentrator solar module of claim 23, wherein at
least one connector pad comprises a void and the connector
comprises a tab sized and shaped for insertion within the void.
25. The micro-concentrator solar module of claim 18, wherein the
connection is an electrical connection.
26. The micro-concentrator solar module of claim 25, wherein at
least one connector pad and the connector comprises an electrically
conductive material to conduct an electrical power output of the
micro-concentrator solar module to an adjacent micro-concentrator
solar module.
27. The micro-concentrator solar module of claim 18, further
comprising a circuit comprising a protection diode configured to
reduce a probability of current flow in an undesirable direction
due to an operational characteristic of an adjoining solar
cell.
28. The micro-concentrator solar module of claim 18, further
comprising a circuit comprising at least one bypass diode
configured to direct the flow of electricity in the circuit.
29. A satellite (1), comprising: a micro-concentrator modular array
(300) comprising a plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules
(10), wherein the plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules
(10) comprise a plurality of solar cells (22), wherein at least two
of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules (10) comprise
a connector pad (304) configured to facilitate a connection between
the at least two of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar
modules (10), a plurality of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS)
based reflectors, wherein the MEMS based reflectors (30) are each
selectively tiltable about at least one axis to reflect a beam of
light, and a connector (68) configured to connect the at least two
of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules (10).
30. The satellite of claim 29, wherein the connection is a
mechanical connection, wherein at least one connector pad comprises
a void and the connector comprises a tab sized and shaped for
insertion within the void.
31. The satellite of claim 29, wherein the connection is an
electrical connection, wherein at least one connector pad and the
connector comprises an electrically conductive material to conduct
an electrical power output of a first solar cell of the plurality
of solar cells to a second solar cell of the plurality of solar
cells.
32. The satellite of claim 29, wherein two or more of the plurality
of solar cells are connected in a series configuration, two or more
of the plurality of solar cells are connected in a parallel
configuration, or two or more of the plurality of solar cells are
connected in a series/parallel configuration.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application is a continuation-in-part of prior
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/186,703 entitled,
"Micro-concentrator Solar Array Using Micro-Electromechanical
Systems (MEMS) Based Reflectors," which was filed on Feb. 21, 2014,
and which is expressly incorporated herein by this reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Increasing the efficiency of electric power generation using
solar or photovoltaic cells is an ongoing pursuit. Solar cells
convert light energy, typically from the sun, into electrical
energy. The light intensity on a solar cell may be referred to as
the number of suns. On the surface of the Earth, a 1-sun
concentration may correspond to a standard illumination at 1 kW/m2.
In space, a 1-sun concentration may correspond to a standard
illumination at 1.353 kW/m2.
[0003] Widespread adoption of solar cells for power generation may
require further breakthrough in both the cost and efficiency. For
example, many solar power generators currently available employ
flat-plate technologies, where the solar cells operate under 1-sun
concentration. These types of solar power generators have
relatively low solar-to-power conversion efficiencies, are
relatively large and cumbersome, and tend to transform a majority
of light energy into heat. Moreover, these solar power generators
may result in relatively long charge times in practice.
Specifically, sometimes charging equipment using the solar power
generator may take many hours, even over several days. In addition
to the long charge times, the positions of the solar power
generators need to be adjusted periodically during the day in order
to accommodate the changing position of the sun in the sky.
[0004] Solar power generators may be used in a wide variety of
applications. FIG. 1 illustrates the use of solar power generators
in connection with a satellite. Illustrated in FIG. 1 is satellite
1. The satellite 1 may be used in various ways, including, but not
limited to, communication, global positioning, and military-based
applications. To provide power to the satellite 1, the satellite 1
may have installed a solar power generator 2. The solar power
generator 2 may be a collection of solar cells, typically
configured as large, foldable blankets or wings that may be
deployed from a stowed configuration by unfolding the
micro-concentrator solar module blanket for receiving light from
the sun and converting that light to electrical power for use by
the satellite. Because of its location in space and due to the size
and configuration of the micro-concentrator solar module blankets,
replacing, repairing, or upgrading the solar power generator 2 may
be difficult and/or expensive.
[0005] It is with respect to these and other considerations that
the disclosure herein is presented.
SUMMARY
[0006] It should be appreciated that this Summary is provided to
introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are
further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary
is not intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed
subject matter.
[0007] According to embodiments disclosed herein, a
micro-concentrator modular array is described. The
micro-concentrator modular array may include a plurality of
micro-concentrator solar modules and a connector. The plurality of
micro-concentrator solar modules may include a plurality of solar
cells. At least two of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar
modules may include a connector pad configured to facilitate a
connection with an adjacent micro-concentrator solar module. The
connector may be configured to removably engage connector pads of
two adjacent micro-concentrator solar modules to connect the two
adjacent micro-concentrator solar modules.
[0008] According to additional embodiments disclosed herein, a
method to change electrical capacity of a micro-concentrator
modular array is described. The method may include determining if
the electrical capacity of the micro-concentrator modular array is
to be changed, and in response to determining that the capacity of
the micro-concentrator modular array is to be changed, determining
whether to replace one of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar
modules, add an additional micro-concentrator solar module to the
plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules, or remove a
micro-concentrator solar module from the plurality of
micro-concentrator solar modules.
[0009] The method may further include in response to a
determination to replace one of the plurality of micro-concentrator
solar modules, identifying the one of the plurality of
micro-concentrator solar modules, replacing the identified one of
the plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules with a new
micro-concentrator solar module, and placing the new
micro-concentrator solar module in service. The micro-concentrator
modular array may include a plurality of micro-concentrator solar
modules comprising a plurality of solar cells, a plurality of
micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) based reflectors, wherein
the MEMS based reflectors are each selectively tiltable about at
least one axis to reflect a beam of light, wherein at least two of
the plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules comprise a
connector pad configured to facilitate a connection with an
adjacent micro-concentrator solar module.
[0010] According to further embodiments disclosed herein, a
micro-concentrator solar module is disclosed. The
micro-concentrator solar module may include a plurality of solar
cells, and a connector pad configured to facilitate a connection
with an adjacent micro-concentrator solar module.
[0011] According to still further embodiments disclosed herein, a
satellite is described. The satellite may include a
micro-concentrator modular array. The micro-concentrator modular
array may include a plurality of solar cells, wherein at least two
of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules comprise a
connector pad configured to facilitate a connection between the at
least two of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar modules. The
micro-concentrator modular array may further include a plurality of
micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) based reflectors, wherein
the MEMS based reflectors are each selectively tiltable about at
least one axis to reflect a beam of light. The microconcentrator
modular array may also include a connector configured to connect
the at least two of the plurality of micro-concentrator solar
modules.
[0012] The features, functions, and advantages that have been
discussed can be achieved independently in various embodiments of
the present disclosure or may be combined in yet other embodiments,
further details of which can be seen with reference to the
following description and drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] The embodiments presented herein will become more fully
understood from the detailed description and the accompanying
drawings, wherein:
[0014] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a satellite comprising a solar
power generator.
[0015] FIG. 2 is top perspective view of a micro-concentrator solar
module including a plurality of solar cells arranged on a
coverglass and a plurality of micro-electro-mechanical systems
(MEMS) based reflectors (or mirrors) arranged on a substrate
according to at least one embodiment disclosed herein.
[0016] FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of a micro-concentrator
modular array according to at least one embodiment disclosed
herein.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a circuit that may be used for one or
more micro-concentrator solar modules of a micro-concentrator
modular array according to at least one embodiment disclosed
herein.
[0018] FIG. 5A is bottom perspective view of a micro-concentrator
modular array using mechanical connectors according to at least one
embodiment disclosed herein.
[0019] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of a mechanical connector
taken along line A-B of FIG. 5A according to at least one
embodiment disclosure herein.
[0020] FIGS. 6-8 are bottom perspective views of a
micro-concentrator modular array during the replacement of a
micro-concentrator solar module according to at least one
embodiment disclosed herein.
[0021] FIG. 9 is a bottom view of a micro-concentrator modular
array in which an alternative shape of a micro-concentrator solar
module is used according to at least one embodiment disclosed
herein.
[0022] FIG. 10 illustrates one configuration of a routine to change
electrical capacity according to at least one embodiment disclosed
herein.
[0023] The plurality of figures presented in this application
illustrates variations and different aspects of the embodiments of
the present disclosure. Accordingly, the detailed description on
each illustration will describe the differences identified in the
corresponding illustration.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] The following detailed description is directed to
technologies for a solar cell array formed from modular
self-tracking micro-concentrators. As discussed above, in some
implementations, to achieve a desired voltage, one or more
micro-concentrator solar modules may be electrically connected with
one or more other micro-concentrator solar modules. It may be
difficult or expensive, or both, to change the output of the one or
more connected micro-concentrator solar modules. This may be
especially true if the connected micro-concentrator solar modules
are in a relatively inaccessible location like space. It may be
desirable, in some implementations, to provide a system whereby one
or more micro-concentrator solar modules may be replaced, added, or
removed in a modular fashion to reduce the expense or difficulty in
changing the voltage output of the connected micro-concentrator
solar modules.
[0025] According to various embodiments, solar cell-mirror
combinations (e.g. a solar module) may be combined to form a
micro-concentrator modular (MCM) array. MCM arrays may be
configured to be modular, e.g. one micro-concentrator solar module
of a MCM array may have one or more connectors that may facilitate
the disconnection, removal, and/or connection of a
micro-concentrator solar module of a MCM array to another
micro-concentrator solar module of a MCM array. The MCM array may
be configured to have an application-specific voltage or power
output. One or more of the micro-concentrator solar modules forming
the MCM array may include reflective micro-electromechanical (MEM)
mirrors that are used to focus light onto solar cells.
[0026] These and some other aspects of the presently disclosed
subject matter are described in further detail, below. In the
following description, references are made to the accompanying
drawings that form a part hereof, and which are shown by way of
illustration, specific embodiments, or examples.
[0027] FIG. 2 is an illustration of a micro-concentrator solar
module 10 according to an aspect of the disclosure. In some
implementations, the micro-concentrator solar module 10 may be used
to provide electrical power for various applications including, but
not limited to, satellite-based systems. The micro-concentrator
solar module 10 may include a coverglass 20, a plurality of solar
cells 22, a substrate 24, a plurality of micro-electromechanical
systems (MEMS) based mirrors or reflectors 30, and a control module
32. In the exemplary aspect as shown, the solar cells 22 may be
arranged in a 4.times.5 array upon the coverglass 20, which results
in a total of twenty solar cells 22 included within the
micro-concentrator solar module 10. However, those skilled in the
art will appreciate that the micro-concentrator solar module 10 may
include any number of solar cells 22. An array 40 of reflectors 30
may be associated with each solar cell 22. Each reflector 30
included within the array 40 may be positioned relative to the
associated solar cell 22 in order to focus or reflect a plurality
of light beams 42 generated by a light source 43 onto the solar
cell 22.
[0028] The light source may be any type of radiating energy source
such as, for example, man-made lighting in a building, or the sun.
One or more of the reflectors 30 may be selectively tiltable such
that if the position of the light source changes, the reflector 30
located within the associated array 40 may be tilted accordingly in
order to track the changed position of the light source relative to
the associated solar cell 22. For example, if the light source is
the sun, then each reflector 30 located within an associated array
40 may be tilted accordingly in order to track the changing
position of the sun throughout the day. The above aspects and
additional aspects of the micro-concentrator solar module 10 may be
found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/186,703 entitled,
"Micro-concentrator Solar Array Using Micro-electromechanical
Systems (MEMS) Based Reflectors," the entire contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference as is fully set forth herein.
[0029] The micro-concentrator solar module 10 may be used in any
application where light energy, typically from the sun, may be
converted into electrical energy. For example, FIG. 2 illustrates a
single micro-concentrator solar module 10 for purposes of
convenience and clarity. The single micro-concentrator solar module
10 in FIG. 2 may be used in relatively compact applications such
as, for example, a slim-line pocket-sized portable power generator.
However, the single micro-concentrator solar module 10 may be
electrically connected or ganged with other micro-concentrator
solar modules in order to create a two-dimensional or tiled array
of multiple micro-concentrator solar modules, illustrated in more
detail in the following figures.
[0030] The two-dimensional array of multiple micro-concentrator
solar modules may be used in relatively large-scale applications
such as, for example, a terrestrial portable power generator, an
unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), or a satellite. The coverglass 20
may be constructed of any transparent material that allows for the
light beams 42 to pass through such as, for example, glass,
plastic, or silicon dioxide. The substrate 24 may be used to
support or mount the reflectors 30. In one non-limiting aspect, the
substrate 24 may be constructed of fused silica. The
micro-concentrator solar module 10 may include connectors 68A and
68B. The connectors 68A and 68B may provide for the ability to
electrically and/or mechanically connect the micro-concentrator
solar module 10 to another micro-concentrator solar module to form
a micro-concentrator modular array, illustrated in more detail,
below.
[0031] FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of a micro-concentrator
modular array 300. The micro-concentrator modular array 300 may be
contained within a housing 301. In some implementations, the
housing 301 may provide structural support and/or protection for
the internal components of the micro-concentrator modular array
300. It should be noted, however, that the presently disclosed
subject matter is not limited to the use of the housing 301 or any
particular size, shape, or configuration of the housing 301.
[0032] The micro-concentrator modular array 300 includes
micro-concentrator solar modules 10A-10D (hereinafter referred to
collectively as the "micro-concentrator solar modules 10," and
individually as the "micro-concentrator solar module 10A," the
"micro-concentrator solar module 10B," and the like). In some
implementations, the micro-concentrator solar modules 10 may be
constructed of a plurality of solar cells using MEMS-based mirrors
or reflectors, described by way of example in FIG. 1, above. For
example, one or more of the micro-concentrator solar modules 10 may
take the form of the micro-concentrator solar module 10 of FIG.
2.
[0033] It may be desirable to electrically and/or mechanically
connect one or more of the micro-concentrator solar modules 10 to
other micro-concentrator solar modules 10 in a modular fashion. For
example, in some implementations, a micro-concentrator solar module
10 may produce a certain voltage. If the voltage is insufficient or
a higher voltage is desirable, two or more micro-concentrator solar
modules 10 may be electrically connected in a series configuration
to add the voltage of one of the micro-concentrator solar modules
10 to the voltage of another one of the micro-concentrator solar
modules 10 to provide for a higher voltage.
[0034] In other configurations, if a current is insufficient or a
higher current is desirable, two or more micro-concentrator solar
modules 10 may be electrically connected in a parallel
configuration to provide for a higher current. These and other
configurations are considered to be within the scope of the present
disclosure. For example, a combination parallel/series electrical
connection may be used.
[0035] To electrically and/or mechanically connect one of the
micro-concentrator solar modules 10 to another one of the
micro-concentrator solar modules 10, the micro-concentrator solar
modules 10 may include connector pads 304A-304F (hereinafter
referred to collectively as the "connector pads 304," and
individually as the "connector pad 304A," the "connector pad 304B,"
and the like) on a bottom surface of the micro-concentrator solar
modules 10. The connector pads 304 may be comprised of electrically
conductive material. The connector pads 304 may be in electrical
communication with an output of one or more of the
micro-concentrator solar modules 10, illustrated in more detail in
FIG. 4, below.
[0036] The presently disclosed subject matter is not limited to any
particular size, shape, or configuration of connector pads 304. For
example, as illustrated, the micro-concentrator solar modules 10
have four (4) connector pads 304. This may provide some benefits in
certain implementations. For example, having four connector pads
304 may allow the micro-concentrator solar modules 10 to be
inserted and connected in more than one orientation with respect to
other micro-concentrator solar modules 10. It should be understood,
however, that the micro-concentrator solar modules 10 may include
more than or fewer than four connector pads 304. Further, it should
be understood that the presently disclosed subject matter is not
limited to any particular location for the installation of the
connector pads 304, as the connector pads 304 may be installed on
various locations of the micro-concentrator solar modules 10
depending on the particular configuration or requirements of the
micro-concentrator solar modules 10.
[0037] To electrically and/or mechanically connect one of the
micro-concentrator solar modules 10 to another one of the
micro-concentrator solar modules 10, connectors 68A-68D
(hereinafter referred to collectively as the "connectors 68," and
individually as the "connector 68A," the "connector 68B," and the
like) may be used. The connectors 68 may be formed from
electrically conductive material. In some configurations, the
connectors 68 may be configured to provide an electrical connection
between micro-concentrator solar modules 10 to electrically connect
one micro-concentrator solar module 10 to an adjacent
micro-concentrator solar module 10. In other configurations, the
connectors 68 may be configured to provide a mechanical connection
between micro-concentrator solar modules 10 to mechanically connect
one of the micro-concentrator solar modules 10 to an adjacent
micro-concentrator solar module 10.
[0038] In other configurations, the connectors 68 may be configured
to provide both a mechanical and electrical connection. In some
configurations, the connectors 68 may include one or more
electrical features configured to control the flow of electrical
power through the connectors 68. In one example, one or more of the
connectors 68 may include a diode configured to prevent the flow of
electrical power in a certain direction, while allowing the flow of
electrical power in another direction.
[0039] In the example illustrated in FIG. 3, the connector 68A
electrically and/or mechanically connects the micro-concentrator
solar module 10C to the micro-concentrator solar module 10A through
the connector pads 304C and 304E. In the implementations in which
the connection is electrical, depending on the particular
electrical configuration, electrical power generated by
micro-concentrator solar module 10C may be communicated to
micro-concentrator solar module 10A through the connector 68A. In
another example, electrical power generated by micro-concentrator
solar module 10D may be communicated to micro-concentrator solar
module 10B through the connector 68B. The output of the
micro-concentrator solar module 10A may be communicated to an
external system through connector 68C, or another type of
electrical connector. In a similar manner, the output of the
micro-concentrator solar module 10B may be communicated to an
external system through connector 68D. In one implementation, the
electrical connector 68C may be an input or output and the
electrical connector 68D may be a corresponding output or input to
provide an electrical circuit for the micro-concentrator modular
array 300.
[0040] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a circuit 400 that may be used for
one or more of the micro-concentrator solar modules 10 of the
micro-concentrator modular array 300 of FIG. 3. The circuit 400
includes solar cells 22. One or more of the solar cells 22 may
generate electrical power from a light source, such as the sun. One
or more of the solar cells 22 may be in electrical communication
with other solar cells 22 via the circuit 400. The circuit 400 may
be formed from an electrically conductive material (such as copper)
and may be wired, printed, or in other forms suitable for a
particular application. The circuit 400 may be protected by or
printed on the coverglass 20. To direct the flow of current through
the circuit 400, the circuit 400 may include one or more bypass
diodes 404. The bypass diodes 404 may provide for the flow of
electricity in one direction, while preventing or reducing the flow
of electricity in another direction.
[0041] The circuit 400 may also include a protection diode 406. In
some implementations, the protection diode 406 may reduce the
probability of current flow in an undesirable direction due to the
operational characteristics of an adjoining solar cell. For
example, the circuit 400 may be connected to another circuit 400 of
another micro-concentrator solar module 10. If the other
micro-concentrator solar module 10 has a large electrical output
(created possibly by a solar event or lightning strike, or other
event), the protection diode 406 may prevent electrical flow from
the other micro-concentrator solar module 10 in a manner that may
damage the circuit 400 or the components of the micro-concentrator
solar module 10. In some configurations, one or more of the bypass
diodes 404 and/or the protection diode 406 may be included within
one or more of the connectors 68 of FIG. 3.
[0042] The circuit 400 may include an input 408A and an output 408B
for receiving electrical power and for outputting electrical power,
respectively. In some implementations, the circuit 400 may not
include only an input 408A or only an output 408B. The input 408A
and/or the output 408B may be used as the connectors 68 of FIG. 3
or may be in electrical communication with the connectors 68 of
FIG. 3 to facilitate the transfer of electrical power.
[0043] FIG. 5A is a bottom perspective view of a micro-concentrator
modular array 500 using mechanical connectors. The
micro-concentrator modular array 500 comprises micro-concentrator
solar modules 10A and 10B. The micro-concentrator solar module 10A
includes a connector pad 504A and the micro-concentrator solar
module 10B includes a connector pad 504B. The micro-concentrator
solar module 10A is in electrical communication with the
micro-concentrator solar module 10B through a connector 68A that
connects the connector pad 504A to the connector pad 504B. As
mentioned above, in some implementations, the connector may be
configured to provide a mechanical connection between
micro-concentrator solar modules. In the example illustrated in
FIG. 5, the connector pad 504A, the connector pad 504B, and the
connector 68A include a mechanical feature that facilitates a
mechanical securement of the micro-concentrator solar module 10A to
the micro-concentrator solar module 10B, illustrated in further
detail in FIG. 5B, below.
[0044] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the connector 68A, a
connector pad 504A, and a connector pad 504B when taken along the
line A-B of FIG. 5A. The connector pad 504A is affixed to the
micro-concentrator solar module 10A (of FIG. 5A) and the connector
pad 504B is affixed to the micro-concentrator solar module 10B (of
FIG. 5A). The connector 68A is in mechanical communication with the
connector pad 504A and the connector pad 504B. To provide
mechanical securement of the connector 68A to the connector pad
504A and the connector pad 504B (and, therefore, the
micro-concentrator solar module 10A to the micro-concentrator solar
module 10B), the connector 68A may include tabs 512A and 512B. The
tab 512A may be configured, sized, and shaped to interface with a
void 514A of the connector pad 504A for insertion within the void
514A. The tab 512B may be configured, sized, and shaped to
interface with a void 514B of the connector pad 504B for insertion
within the void 514B.
[0045] When properly aligned and inserted, the tab 512A, in
combination with the void 514A of the connector pad 504A, as well
as the tab 512B in combination with the void 514B of the connector
pad 504B, may provide a degree of mechanical securement. In some
configurations, the connector 68A may only be configured for
mechanical securement. In other configurations, the connector 68A
may be configured for mechanical securement as well as provide an
electrical pathway to facilitate the flow of electrical power from
the micro-concentrator solar module 10A to the micro-concentrator
solar module 10B, or vice versa.
[0046] Other micro-concentrator solar modules may be connected as
well. In the example illustrated in FIG. 5A, the micro-concentrator
solar module 10B includes a connector 68B with tab 512B. It should
be noted that various combinations of connectors may be used. For
example, a micro-concentrator solar module may use connectors that
only provide for electrical power transfer, only connectors that
provide for mechanical securement, or various combinations thereof.
Mechanical connectors may take various forms.
[0047] In some implementations, the connectors 68 may include
features that use friction, magnetism, or mechanical means (such as
clasps) to achieve and maintain a mechanical connection. In other
implementations, the connectors 68 may include features that allow
for the flow of electrical power between the connectors 68. In
further implementations, the connectors 68 may include more than
one feature that provides both a mechanical and electrical
connection between the micro-concentrator solar modules 10. The
presently disclosed subject matter is not limited to any particular
type of configuration.
[0048] In some instances, one or more of the micro-concentrator
solar modules 10 may be replaced, taking advantage of the modular
aspect of various implementations of the presently disclosed
subject matter. In some examples, a micro-concentrator solar module
may be removed and replaced in a micro-concentrator modular array,
illustrated by way of example in FIGS. 6-8, below.
[0049] FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of a micro-concentrator
modular array 600. The micro-concentrator modular array 600
includes a micro-concentrator solar module 10A. Due to various
circumstances, the micro-concentrator solar module 10A may become
unsuitable for use in the micro-concentrator modular array 600. The
reasons for unsuitability of use may vary. For example, if the
micro-concentrator modular array 600 is used in space, debris or
other material striking the micro-concentrator solar module 10A may
damage the micro-concentrator solar module 10A to the point that
the micro-concentrator solar module 10A does not produce a suitable
or acceptable amount of electrical power. In another example, the
micro-concentrator solar module 10A may be an outdated or older
module of the micro-concentrator modular array 600 that does not
perform to the level of other micro-concentrator solar modules 10
in the micro-concentrator modular array 600.
[0050] If the micro-concentrator solar module 10A is to be
replaced, the micro-concentrator solar module 10A may be identified
(FIG. 6), removed (FIG. 7), and replaced (FIG. 8) by a new
micro-concentrator solar module. In the illustration provided in
FIG. 6, the micro-concentrator solar module 10A has been identified
for replacement. The micro-concentrator solar module 10A is in
electrical and/or mechanical communication with a
micro-concentrator solar module 10B via a connector 68. The
connector 68 may be removed or otherwise moved into a position that
provides for the removal of the micro-concentrator solar module
10A. In some configurations, the connector 68 may be a fully
detachable unit. In other configurations, the connector 68 may be
configured to remain installed on one micro-concentrator solar
module, while another micro-concentrator solar module is removed or
added.
[0051] In FIG. 7, the micro-concentrator solar module 10A is
illustrated as being partially removed from the micro-concentrator
modular array 600. It should be noted that the direction of the
movement of the micro-concentrator solar module 10A to remove the
micro-concentrator solar module 10A is merely exemplary. For
example, in some implementations, the micro-concentrator solar
module 10A may be removed in a different direction than what is
illustrated in FIG. 7. Once removed, the micro-concentrator solar
module 10A may be replaced, illustrated in FIG. 8. In FIG. 8, the
micro-concentrator solar module 10A has been replaced with a
micro-concentrator solar module 10C. The micro-concentrator solar
module 10C may be placed in electrical and/or mechanical
communication with the micro-concentrator solar module 10B via the
connector 68.
[0052] FIG. 9 is an illustration of a micro-concentrator modular
array 900 in which an alternative shape of a micro-concentrator
solar module is used. As mentioned above, the shape of a
micro-concentrator solar module may take various forms depending on
the particular configuration of the micro-concentrator modular
array in which it is used. The micro-concentrator modular array 900
includes micro-concentrator solar modules 10A-10D. The
micro-concentrator solar modules 10A-10D are placed in electrical
communication via connectors 68.
[0053] The micro-concentrator solar modules 10A-10D are illustrated
as having a hexagonal or honeycomb shape. The hexagonal or
honeycomb shape of the micro-concentrator solar modules 10A-10D may
provide various advantages over other shapes, such as circular,
elliptical, or square. In some examples, a honeycomb shaped
structure may provide for a structure having minimal density along
with relative high out-of-plane compression properties and
out-of-plane shear properties.
[0054] FIG. 10 illustrates one configuration of a routine 1000 to
change electrical capacity of a micro-concentrator modular array
according to at least one embodiment disclosed herein. Unless
otherwise indicated, more or fewer operations may be performed than
shown in the figures and described herein. Additionally, unless
otherwise indicated, these operations may also be performed in a
different order than those described herein.
[0055] The routine 1000 commences at operation 1002 ("monitor
status of micro-concentrator modular array"), where the status of a
micro-concentrator modular array is monitored. The status of the
micro-concentrator modular array may involve the monitoring of
several systems or outputs, among others. For example, the
monitoring may include a measurement of the output of the
micro-concentrator modular array for a particular amount of
sunlight or ambient light. If the micro-concentrator modular array
does not produce a desired or expected output, one or more
micro-concentrator solar modules of the micro-concentrator modular
array may be damaged.
[0056] The routine 1000 continues to operation 1004 ("change
capacity"), where a determination is made as to whether or not a
capacity of a micro-concentrator modular array is to be changed.
The capacity may be related to the electrical power output of the
micro-concentrator modular array. If the capacity does not need to
be changed, the routine 1000 may continue to operation 1002,
whereby the status of the micro-concentrator modular array is
monitored.
[0057] If the capacity is to be changed as determined in operation
1004, the routine 1000 may continue to operation 1006 ("replace
micro-concentrator solar module or change number of
micro-concentrator solar modules"), where a determination is made
as to replace a micro-concentrator solar module of the
micro-concentrator modular array or to change the number of
micro-concentrator solar modules in the micro-concentrator modular
array. In some configurations, a micro-concentrator solar module
may be a modularized micro-concentrator solar module capability of
being removed, replaced, or added to other modularized or
unmodularized micro-concentrator solar modules. In some examples,
it may be desired to replace a micro-concentrator solar module due
to degraded or unacceptable performance levels. In other examples,
it may be desirable to add a micro-concentrator solar module to a
micro-concentrator modular array to, among other possibilities,
increase the performance of the micro-concentrator modular
array.
[0058] If the determination at operation 1006 is to replace a
micro-concentrator solar module, the routine 1000 may continue to
operation 1008 ("identify micro-concentrator solar module to be
replaced"), where the micro-concentrator solar module to be
replaced is identified. In some examples, more than one
micro-concentrator solar module may be replaced. The presently
disclosed subject matter is not limited to any particular number of
micro-concentrator solar modules to be replaced.
[0059] The routine 1000 may continue to operation 1010 ("replace
micro-concentrator solar module with new micro-concentrator solar
module"), where the micro-concentrator solar module identified in
operation 1008 is replaced. FIGS. 6-8 illustrate an example
operation for replacing a micro-concentrator solar module. The
micro-concentrator solar module may be removed and a new
micro-concentrator solar module may be inserted in its place. In
conjunction with replacing the micro-concentrator solar module, one
or more connectors that connect the to-be-replaced
micro-concentrator solar module with another micro-concentrator
solar module may be placed in a position to facilitate the movement
of the to-be-replaced micro-concentrator solar module.
[0060] The routine 1000 may continue to operation 1012 ("place new
micro-concentrator solar module in service"), where the new
micro-concentrator solar module is placed into service. Placing
into service may include electrically or mechanically connecting
the new micro-concentrator solar module to one or more
micro-concentrator solar modules of the micro-concentrator modular
array. After replacement and placing into service, the routine 1000
may continue to operation 1002, whereby the status of the
micro-concentrator modular array is monitored.
[0061] If at operation 1006 it is determined that the number of
micro-concentrator solar modules is to be changed, the routine 1000
continues to operation 1014 ("add new micro-concentrator solar
module or remove micro-concentrator solar module"), where a new
micro-concentrator solar module is added to a micro-concentrator
modular array or a micro-concentrator solar module in the
micro-concentrator modular array is removed. Upon the addition of a
micro-concentrator solar module, the routine 1000 may continue to
operation 1012, where the new micro-concentrator solar module is
placed in service. Upon the removal of a micro-concentrator solar
module, the routine 1000 may continue to operation 1002, whereby
the status of the micro-concentrator modular array is monitored.
The routine 1000 may continue at operation 1002 or may end.
[0062] The subject matter described above is provided by way of
illustration only and should not be construed as limiting. Various
modifications and changes may be made to the subject matter
described herein without following the example embodiments and
applications illustrated and described, and without departing from
the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure, which is set
forth in the following claims.
* * * * *